I think some of it comes down to personality. For some people it is just easier than for others. I think something to help you is to be proactive with policies that are just the way you want them from the beginning, and using reminders in written communication so that you are always laying out the rules so when it comes time to enforce them it's nothing personal. Another tip is to always enforce the rules, don't do anyone any favors. If they have fair warning, it really isn't your fault. If you still feel guilty, send out reminders in a newsletter about common issues that parents may forget about. You can update your policies and send out a new copy. Or some people send out another copy when they do yearly conferences. It's January, the new year, another excuse to update or remind families about policies. So, I guess I'm saying, maybe let the policies be your backbone and create your boundaries so all you have to do is refer to them.

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